SENATOR BALL AND PURPLE HEART HOMES SEEK COMMUNITY SUPPORT TO RENOVATE A HOME FOR LOCAL VIETNAM VETERAN

Brewster, N.Y. – 03/25/2014 – Senator Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson), Chairman of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, will join Purple Heart Homes Co-founders Dale Beatty and John Gallina to introduce Vietnam Veteran Private Dan Flanagan to the community on Thursday, April 3, 2014 at 6 PM at the Patterson Fire Department. The event will be hosted to ask for help from professional trades and volunteers to renovate Private Flanigan’s home in Pawling, NY.

An initiative began in Mahopac, NY on September 12, 2013 when the community gathered together with one purpose, to build or renovate a home for a service-connected disabled veteran in Senator Ball’s District.

Private Daniel Flanigan, a 100% service-connected disabled Vietnam Veteran has been selected after a thorough vetting process by Purple Heart Homes, a non-profit based in Statesville, NC that provides housing solutions for disabled veterans.

“It is a sad reality that this country has turned its back on our older soldiers, that fought for, and defended all of the freedoms we enjoy every day. Private Flanigan had no choice but to serve in Vietnam, he received a Purple Heart because of the blood he shed for our country,” said Senator Greg Ball. “It is heartwarming to see the immense community support we have received since we first made this announcement. Literally hundreds of local elected officials, financial institutions, small businesses and community partners have stepped up to the plate. If you would like to join our Purple Heart Homes Senate Task Force and join our honorable efforts, please contact my office today.”

The Kick-off Ceremony is being held to invite all interested professional trades and volunteers that want to get involved – roll up their sleeves and pitch in to help renovate Private Flanigan’s home in Pawling, NY.

Those attending the event will have an opportunity to be introduced to Private Daniel Flanigan, who received a Purple Heart while serving in Vietnam.

Purple Heart Homes Co-founders Dale Beatty (a CNN top 10 2013 Hero) and John Gallina will be joining Senator Greg Ball to explain what needs to be done to renovate the home to sign-up volunteers.

Renovation will begin in June tied in with Army Week Association. Work on the project is expected to take at least four months. An official Welcome Home Ceremony will be held for Private Daniel Flanigan when the renovations have been completed.

If you would like to RSVP for the meeting or join the task force, you can contact Senator Greg Ball’s office at kgobins@nysenate.gov or 845-279-3773.